India non-commital on Jerusalem as Israel's capital

The Indian statement comes ahead of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's expected visit to India early next year.

India on Thursday declined to comment on US President Donald Trump's decision to recognise Jerusalem as Israel's capital, saying its position on Palestine "is independent and consistent".

"India's position on Palestine is independent and consistent. It is shaped by our views and interests, and not determined by any third country," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said in response to queries.

The Indian statement comes ahead of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's expected visit to India early next year.

Trump on Wednesday announced that the US now recognised Jerusalem as Israel's capital, describing the move as "a long overdue step" to advance the Middle East peace process evoking strong reactions from Arab and European capitals.